The emerald-spotted wood dove is a small pigeon, about \(20\) cm long, known for its metallic green wing spots, which are a key identification feature. It inhabits woodlands and savannas across sub-Saharan Africa, feeding on seeds and small invertebrates on the ground. Nests are built as a platform of twigs and roots, usually in a tree or bush, and both parents participate in raising the young.
Identification Size: Approximately \(20\) cm (7.5–8 inches) long and weighing around \(55-65\) grams.Plumage: Features bluish-grey on the head, a pinkish-grey throat, and pinkish underparts that fade to white on the belly.Wings: Folded wings have distinctive, dark metallic green patches that give the bird its name.
Distinguishing features: In flight, the underwings show bright chestnut markings. The bill is dark with a red base.Sexes: Males and females look similar, though females may be slightly duller.
Behavior Diurnal: They are active during the day.Foraging: They are ground foragers that often walk in a zigzag pattern.
Vocalization: Known for their melancholic call, which consists of a series of coos. Habitat and diet Habitat: Found in dry woodlands, open woodlands, savannas, and gardens, but not in arid areas or dense rainforests.
Diet: Primarily feeds on seeds and fallen fruit, also consuming small invertebrates like termites and small molluscs.
Reproduction Nesting: They build a platform nest of twigs, roots, and grass in a tree, bush, or aloe, typically 0.5-6 meters above the ground.Eggs: The female lays 1-2 eggs.Incubation: Incubation is performed mainly by the female for about 17 days.Chicks: The young stay in the nest for 15-17 days before leaving.
